Sweden confirm Ibrahimovic will not play at 2018 World Cup

Sweden’s Football Association has announced that Zlatan Ibrahimovic will not come out of international retirement to play at this year’s World Cup in Russia.

Ibrahimovic, who retired from international competition after Euro 2016, represented Sweden in the World Cup in 2002 and in 2006.

A statement from the Svenska Fotbollforbundet (SvFF), released on Thursday, read: “Zlatan Ibrahimovic has previously said no to playing for the national team – and he hasn’t changed his mind. ‘I talked to Zlatan on Tuesday. He told me he hasn’t changed his mind regarding playing for the national team – it’s still a no,’ says Lars Richt [sporting director].

“Zlatan Ibrahimovic is therefore, for the same reason as previous national team gatherings, not a candidate for the World Cup squad that coach Janne Andersson will present on May 15.”

The 36-year-old striker, who moved to LA Galaxy from Manchester United last month, has frequently expressed his desire to come out from retirement and play at the tournament.